Pace / Draw Angles:
Yarmouth’s straight 5f can favour pace drawn middle-to-far side when ground is fast. No obvious front-runners here bar Rocking Ends (habitually prominent) and possibly Diomed Duke. A likely even pace rather than burn-up, which should help those sitting just off the speed. Low draws (1–3) can be slightly vulnerable if pace collapses wide.
Strongest Contenders
Rocking Ends (Tom Clover / Daniel Muscutt) – Proven sprinter who bounced back with a fluent Windsor success (92 RPR). Reliable at 5f on fast ground, carrying a career-high mark (90). Drawn 1 could be tricky if pace develops middle, but progressive profile and tactical speed make him the standard. Proven.
Diomed Duke (Stuart Williams / Nicholls 5) – Three-year-old on the upgrade; won well at Lingfield then solid York run in stronger race. Trainer adept at Yarmouth, 3yo WFA allowance helps. Could be better still over fast 5f. Progressive.
Brave Nation (Michael Bell / De Sousa) – Mixed bag this season but has been shaping better than bare form; multiple solid runs in Class 3/4 handicaps. Last time behind Rocking Ends was a blip, but now back in calmer waters. Chance if bouncing back. Proven, but risky.
Main Dangers
Mesaafi (Ross Burdon / Jack Mitchell) – Consistent this summer, including strong 3rd in a 52k Ascot sprint. Versatile across 5–6f, but best figures on stiff tracks. Yarmouth sharp 5f may test his toe. Still respected.
Kinetic Force (Donovan / De La Sayette) – Lightly raced 3yo, best run when 2nd at Goodwood (90 RPR). Pulled up last time, but if forgiven, still a live improver. Trainer angle less convincing. Promising but risky.
Interesting Outsider
Law Of Average (Chelsea Banham / Haynes) – Looks out of sorts this year, but mark now sliding (84). Previous York win (RPR 93) suggests ability. Likely wants softer ground and strong pace—today’s set-up may be against him.
Suitability Scores
- Rocking Ends – 8.5/10 (well in form, ground ideal, draw slight concern)
- Diomed Duke – 8/10 (progressive 3yo, trainer positive, still learning)
- Mesaafi – 7.5/10 (classy runs at Ascot, but track/trip sharper than ideal)
- Brave Nation – 7/10 (talented but inconsistent; danger if bouncing back)
- Kinetic Force – 6.5/10 (best run good enough, but patchy overall)
- Law Of Average – 5/10 (well handicapped, but needs more juice in ground & revival)
Private Tissue (Fair Odds)
- Rocking Ends – 2/1
- Diomed Duke – 3/1
- Mesaafi – 5/1
- Brave Nation – 6/1
- Kinetic Force – 10/1
- Law Of Average – 14/1
Summary
This looks set up for a progressive sprinter with pace. Rocking Ends is the class act, but the draw makes him short enough at market odds. Diomed Duke appeals most as the improving 3yo with scope off 79. Mesaafi brings strong Ascot form but may find Yarmouth’s sharp 5f on the quick side. Brave Nation is the dark one if putting Windsor flop behind him.
Smart Play:
- Win Bet – Diomed Duke (well treated, improver, ideal set-up).
- Saver – Rocking Ends (the benchmark, but draw a worry).
- Each-way Angle – Mesaafi if drifting to double figures.
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